Metrolink slammed for reluctance to replace vandalised ticket machine at Newhey

The damaged ticket machine on the Rochdale bound platform at Newhey

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Metrolink has been slammed after admitting to a reluctance to replace a vandalised ticket machine in Newhey.

In an email to Metrolink enquiring about when the machine will be repaired, a female commuter commented: "As I'm sure you are aware, it has been out of commission for a while, and with no track crossing available at this stop, buying a ticket involves a round trip which many could find prohibitive.”

Whilst explaining there are plans to replace the machine, Metrolink also advised it is reluctant to do so "as in other cases the machines have been vandalised again in other areas within a few days".

The commuter was advised in the meantime "to cross at the designated crossing point and use the machine on the other side until the replacement has been put in place”.

A spokesperson for STORM said: “Crossing at the designated crossing point and using the other side’s machine involves an extra walk of about 100 metres including steps, or much longer if the step-less route is used or has to be used.

“Just imagine the effects on someone pushing an occupied wheelchair or a mother with pram and toddler(s).

“How solving Newhey’s deficiency by robbing another stop fits with TfGM’s claims for Metrolink, beggars belief.

“How revealing to find that Metrolink is ‘reluctant’ to reinstate a method of paying to travel.

“Will Metrolink be equally ‘reluctant’ to sanction anybody who didn’t, or possibly couldn’t, access the other platform to buy a ticket.

“The incidence of so many admitted acts of criminal damage doesn’t engender any confidence in Metrolink’s website claim that:

'All stops are monitored by closed circuit television (CCTV) 24 hours a day, seven days a week.'

'The Metrolink system is regularly patrolled by the Mtrolink unit of Greater Manchester Police and Metrolink staff.'"

“The level of criminal damage on this camera-infested network suggests that either the people doing the monitoring are less than efficient, or, that nobody is monitoring.”